4Kids Firms Up Licensing Agreements

NEW YORK: 4Kids Entertainment has been named worldwide licensing agent for merchandise based on the Mini Ninjas video game, excluding Japan and Korea, and the U.S. kids’ outfit also secured a deal for Penguin Young Readers to serve as global licensing partner in the publishing category for Chaotic.

The Mini Ninjas action adventure video game from Eidos Interactive was released last month on multiple platforms. “Mini Ninjas has a wonderfully distinctive look and compelling characters, and the brand appeals to a broad demographic range—all key attributes for a healthy licensing program across multiple categories,” said Carlin West, the executive VP of acquisitions and development at 4Kids Entertainment.

The new partnership 4Kids and Chaotic USA Entertainment Group entered into with Penguin will see a range of age-appropriate Chaotic book titles produced, including sticker books for 6- to 8-year-olds, Decide Your Destiny interactive game books for 8- to 12-year-olds, and novels and graphic novels for older readers.

“Penguin Young Readers Group joins Chaotic’s growing roster of licensees for this vibrant and expanding brand,” commented West, who oversees Chaotic brand development. “Penguin’s world-class publishing program is sure to bring compelling written entertainment to our fans of all ages.”